A growing number of our clients are asking for help comparing the various electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids on the market. In this post, we’ll take a look at Chevrolet’s all-electric Bolt and its plug-in hybrid Volt.
Chevrolet Bolt vs. Volt
We’ve configured a sample vehicle for each car and then examined some of the key differentiating factors of each. Our sample models are based on popular configurations among Cartelligent clients.
- 2017 Chevrolet Bolt: Our example Chevrolet Bolt LT is configured with heated seats and blind spot monitoring at an MSRP of $39,395.
- 2017 Chevrolet Volt: Our sample Volt is the LT with heated seats and steering wheel. MSRP as configured is $35,100.
Vehicle Comparison
We’ll look at the features of each vehicle side-by-side.
| Bolt | Volt | |
| Model Type | 2017 Chevrolet Bolt LT | 2017 Chevrolet Volt LT |
| MSRP | $39,395 | $35,100 |
Engine and Fuel Economy
| Bolt | Volt | |
| Horsepower | 200 | 149 |
| Electric-Only MPGe | 128 | 106 |
| City/Hwy MPG | n/a | 42 |
Charging and Range
| Bolt | Volt | |
| Electric-only range | 238 miles | 53 miles |
| Charge time | 9.5 hours (with 240V Charger) | 4.5 hours (with 240V Charger) |
| California HOV Lane Access | Yes (with sticker) | Yes (with sticker) |
Capacities
| Bolt | Volt | |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo volume (behind seats) | 16.9 ft3 | 10.6 ft3 |
The all-electric Bolt has a fantastic range of 238 miles while the Volt has a more limited range in electric-only mode, but gives you the flexibility to drive another 370 miles in gas mode.
Cost to purchase: Chevrolet Bolt vs. Volt
First, we’ll examine the cost of each when purchased. All payments represent pricing based on market conditions at the time of writing.
| Bolt | Volt | |
| MSRP | $39,395 | $35,100 |
| Down payment | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Monthly payment (inc. tax) | $695 | $605 |
| Total of payments over five years | $43,505 | $38,195 |
| Federal Rebates (income tax credits) | up to $7,500 | up to $7,500 |
| California State Rebates (with qualifying income) | up to $4,000 | up to $3,000 |
Before rebates, the Bolt costs about $5,300 more than the Volt over the course of the loan. Purchasers of either vehicle can apply for Federal income tax credits of up to $7,500. California residents may also be eligible to apply for additional state rebates (depending on their income level). See Further changes to California plug-in and electric vehicle rebates.
Cost to lease: Chevrolet Bolt vs. Volt
Next, we’ll compare the three vehicles on a three-year, 12,000 mile/year lease.
| Bolt | Volt | |
| MSRP | $39,395 | $35,100 |
| Down payment | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Monthly payment (inc. tax) | $300 | $215 |
| Lease disposition fee | $350 | $350 |
| Total of payments over three years | $13,350 | $10,375 |
| Federal Rebates (income tax credits) | up to $7,500 | up to $7,500 |
| California State Rebates (with qualifying income) | up to $4,000 | up to $3,000 |
The Volt saves around $3,000 (before rebates) over the course of the lease. Both vehicles qualify for the same Federal rebates as above, qualifying Californians will need to file separately for the State rebates.
Which to buy: Chevrolet Bolt or Volt
Both vehicles can be fantastic options depending on your personal circumstances. Your Cartelligent agent can talk you through the pros and cons of each vehicle (as well as any other brands) to help you make an educated decision.
Whether you want a new electric vehicle or any other new car, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.